New mum Kristi Chevalley and baby Billie do the honours of cutting the ribbon at the official launch of the Tresillian in Clarence Family Care Centre, watched on by the Hon Bronnie Taylor, Tresillian CEO Rob Mills and Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.
Young families in Grafton and surrounding areas now have access to increased support with the opening of the Tresillian in Clarence Family Care Centre.
Nationals Minister for Women, Regional Health, and Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the service, inside the Clarence Family Care Centre in Grafton, is a win for families as it will provide parents in regional NSW with increased access to specialist early parenting support services.
"We know how difficult it can be adjusting to life with a newborn and having specialist services available closer to home makes a massive difference to the lives of young families living in regional areas," Mrs Taylor said.
"Adding a baby to the family is an incredibly special time, however new parents often face challenges whether that be with feeding, settling the baby, toddler behaviour and perinatal anxiety and depression, which is why the support Tresillian offers is so important."
Nationals Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis said the Centre will ensure people living in the region have quick and easy access to support when they need it.
"This is fantastic news for local families, who can now access a purpose-designed facility which will ensure that they are practically and expertly supported through the first stages of their parenting journey," Mr Gulaptis said.
Tresillian's CEO, Rob Mills said the team at Tresillian aim to support parents to build confidence and enjoy the critical early years of their child's life.
"Since opening in October 2021, the team at Tresillian in Clarence have delivered over 1,000 occasions of service to local families".
The Tresillian Family Care Centre is located at Unit 2, 21 King Street, Grafton and will operate Monday to Friday. Telehealth is also offered for families in other parts of the Clarence region.
"Parents in the region can either self-refer to Tresillian in Clarence by completing a short online contact form on the Tresillian website or ask their local general practitioner or child and family health nurse for a referral," Mr Mills said.
"Tresillian's services have transformed the lives of thousands of Australian families. We're thrilled to be working in partnership with the NSW Government, the Northern NSW Local Health District and Gidget Foundation Australia to ensure every child has the best start in life."
The NSW Nationals in government have committed $12.2 million to Tresillian over two years, which commenced in 2021.
Families seeking parenting support can call Tresillian's Parent's Help Line on 1300 272 736 Monday to Friday. For more advice, tips and support visit Tresillian Family Care Centres.
